Pil·lar n.
 1. The general and popular term for a firm, upright, insulated support for a superstructure; a pier, column, or post; also, a column or shaft not supporting a superstructure, as one erected for a monument or an ornament.
    Jacob set a pillar upon her grave.   --Gen. xxxv. 20.
 The place . . . vast and proud,
 Supported by a hundred pillars stood.   --Dryden.
 2. Figuratively, that which resembles such a pillar in appearance, character, or office; a supporter or mainstay; as, the Pillars of Hercules; a pillar of the state. “You are a well-deserving pillar.”
    By day a cloud, by night a pillar of fire.   --Milton.
 3. R. C. Ch. A portable ornamental column, formerly carried before a cardinal, as emblematic of his support to the church. [Obs.]
 4. Man. The center of the volta, ring, or manege ground, around which a horse turns.
 From pillar to post, hither and thither; to and fro; from one place or predicament to another; backward and forward. [Colloq.]
 Pillar saint. See Stylite.
 Pillars of the fauces. See Fauces, 1.